The Journey

At the end of the day it's all about "The Journey". This popular topic covers the planning, booking, the flight, and then the arrival at you destination. Dive into this section to explore tips and advice for every step of your journey.

Paris, France

Europe Early Bird Sales Released for 2019

It’s that time of year again when all the airlines discount their airfares to Europe for travel in the following year! Qantas, Emirates, Qatar, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines and many other airlines have all released Europe early bird sale fares. Right now, you can book a return ticket from Australia to Europe on a full-service … Continued

Qantas 747

Hong Kong Fuel Surcharge Ban Lifted

Fuel surcharges on flights departing Hong Kong are set to increase dramatically after the Hong Kong government elected to end the current ban. Following months of speculation the Hong Kong fuel surcharge ban will finally be removed from 1 November 2018, allowing airlines once again to set their own charges. Booking award flights originating in Hong … Continued

Many Qantas Economy fare classes are ineligible to earn Qpoints or Qmiles, even on international flights

Economy Meals on Qantas & Virgin Australia Domestic Flights

Enjoy a meal on your flight? Within Australia, both Qantas and Virgin Australia offer complimentary food and drinks on all flights. But exactly what you’ll get depends on the airline, time of day and length of the flight. On some flights you’ll get a full hot meal with complimentary wine and beer, while on others … Continued

3 Sep 2018 In Flight
Rome, Italy

5-Star Business Class to Europe from $3,000 return

There are currently some super Business Class deals from Australia to Europe! Thanks to a Hainan Airlines sale, Business tickets from as little as $3,000 return are available from Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Cairns. Destinations on sale include Rome, London, Paris, Madrid and Brussels. The flights are with Hainan Airlines, which has a 5-star Skytrax … Continued

Empty wallet

The Tricks Airlines Use to Deny EU261 Compensation

Unlike in Australia, Europe has a government-mandated compensation scheme that forces airlines to compensate passengers affected by delayed, cancelled and overbooked flights. European airlines – and non-European airlines flying from Europe – are legally required to pay compensation to passengers delayed over two hours. In theory, this is a very consumer-friendly system that prevents airlines … Continued

29 Jul 2018 Post Flight

Couples Leaving Empty Middle Seat: Unfair?

Strategic seat selection can make all the difference between a comfortable flight and a torturous experience in a cramped middle seat. That’s why many frequent flyers spend a lot of time and effort researching aircraft configurations and choosing the best seat on the plane. When travelling as a couple, aircraft with pairs of neighbouring seats … Continued

Qatar Airways was the only airline to increase flights to Australia during April 2020

Tag Flights within Australia on Overseas Airlines

Did you know that there are several domestic tag flights within Australia operated by overseas airlines? For example, Cathay Pacific flies from Brisbane to Cairns, with services continuing to Hong Kong. However, it is impossible to book a seat on these domestic tag flights within Australia. While overseas airlines are allowed to operate tag flights … Continued

Computer beach

Got a Travel-Related Question? Ask Here…

The Australian Frequent Flyer (AFF) forum is a wonderfully useful resource for travellers. Our forums cover all sorts of travel-related topics including airlines, loyalty programs, credit cards, hotels and much more! There are many knowledgeable AFF members that are happy to answer any travel-related questions you may have. Asking questions will enable you to get … Continued

Flight delayed board

The Mystery of the Disappearing Passengers

We’ve all had flights delayed by passengers that have failed to board. Just last week, this caused an AFF member’s flight from Los Angeles to Sydney to depart more than an hour late. This member subsequently missed their connecting flight to Perth and a family reunion. This is certainly not the first time a passenger … Continued

18 Jun 2018 The Journey
Sydney takeoff

The Australian Departure Tax

Did you know that Aussies are slugged as much as $128.62 in Australian departure taxes and airport fees every time they fly overseas? Whenever you purchase an international flight, your ticket will include a range of taxes that are paid directly to governments and airports. These are payable on both revenue and award bookings, and … Continued

Day or Night Flight in Business Class?

When flying Business class, is a day or night flight preferable? Business class flights command a significant price premium over Economy. While some pay the premium to ensure a good night’s sleep on board, others prefer to fly during the day and maximise the experience. Our members are in two camps when it comes to … Continued

13 Jun 2018 In Flight